The Green Bay Packers jumped out to a 21-3 lead and then coasted to a comfortable win over the San Francisco 49ers on “Thursday Night Football.”
The victory improved Matt LaFleur’s team to 6-2 at the halfway point of the 2020 season.
Here are some quick takes from the Packers’ blowout win at Levi’s Stadium:
– The Packers did exactly what they needed to do. They beat up on an undermanned opponent using their overwhelming personnel advantages. Specifically, the one significant advantage at quarterback.
– Aaron Rodgers threw four touchdown passes, including three in the first half, and now has 24 in the Packers’ first eight games. He’s on pace for 48 touchdown passes, which would be a career-high.
– There’s no connection better than Rodgers to Davante Adams. Many contenders, but none better. Rodgers hit Adams 10 times for 173 yards and a score.
– Adams has three games with 150 or more yards this season and eight touchdowns in six games. And his last three games? Insane numbers.
– The pass-rush finally came alive. The 49ers were obviously shorthanded on offense, but the Packers turned the game on its head once the heat got turned up on Nick Mullens. The pass-rush was especially unkind to left tackle Justin Skule. Preston Smith’s pressure created Raven Greene’s interception, and Za’Darius Smith dominated the second half.
– Save for a play here or there, the Packers contained the 49ers’ run game. Kyle Shanahan’s best hope was dominating the line of scrimmage and controlling the ball. The Packers didn’t let it happen.
– One worry from Thursday night: A couple of players left with injuries and didn’t return, including Jaire Alexander. Fortunately, the Packers have 10 days before they host the Jacksonville Jaguars.
– Aaron Jones’ calf must be in good shape. He handled 20 touches.
– Good for MVS. The early drop could have really cratered his confidence. Instead, he stepped up and created two big plays. Maybe he can come alive over the second half of the season.
– Mason Crosby hit a 53-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. He must be close to 100 percent after dealing with back and calf injuries.
– Tyler Ervin chipped in 72 total yards, including four catches for 48 yards. He looks comfortable as a receiver. And, as always, explosive in the open field.